Our respondents from our Living with Future Britain study made it clear that they want devices that aren’t intrusive, switch off when they want to switch off but reappear when they’re needed. For a current example think about the way iPads and iPhones screens go on stand by and also include the option to use a “do not disturb” button, allowing the user to have some time out from technology.
The future of digital predicts that wearable technology is the next big thing. We have already seen the likes of Google Glass and the Samsung Galaxy Gear smart watch take this new market by storm but, although there seems to be the desire for these products, the younger generation question whether this technology is really wearable. They poke fun at its style and question the need for them:
“They seem like gadgets that have been developed for the sake of it. I don’t see what benefit I would get from Google Glass or a smart watch. Then again I’m sure in a few years I will probably have one of them just like everyone else, but I don’t see a legitimate need for any of these items.”
If wearable tech wants to have any sort of future with this savvy audience they need to build upon the differences between them and other devices (and definitely be a bit more stylish).